Keeping Your Winter Home Heating Utility Costs Down

Although energy costs fluctuate, for the upcoming 2022-23 winter season, they’re expected to increase more substantially. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Winter Fuel Outlook, slightly colder weather than last winter is predicted, as are higher forecasted energy expenditures, which are resulting in higher fuel prices.

How Much Will Costs Go Up?

Across the country, U.S. household average expenditures will increase, regardless of the primary heating method used. However, the specific increase will vary depending on the primary heat source:

• Natural gas: 28% increase from winter 2021-22
• Heating oil: 27% increase from winter 2021-22
• Electricity: 10% increase from winter 2021-22
• Propane: 5% increase from winter 2021-22

Finally, these projected costs are based on the national average and may vary depending on regional location. For example, projected costs for Midwestern households will be different from Southern households.

How Can I Reduce My Winter Utility Costs?

For many households, keeping winter utility bills down is a high priority. Fortunately, there are some simple ways that you can do this. Keep the following tips in mind to manage your utility costs this season.

• Look for and seal any areas where heat may escape from your home, especially around windows and doors.
• Use a programmable thermostat to automatically lower the temperature when you are away from home.
• Ensure that your vents and radiators are not blocked. This will allow warm air to circulate through your home freely.
• Open window curtains and blinds during the day to let the sunlight warm your home and close them at night to keep the heat from escaping.
• Check your furnace filter and replace it if dirty.
• Have all HVAC systems inspected by a professional before winter and repair any leaky ductwork.
• Shut the doors and close the vents to rooms that you are not using. Doing so will allow you to heat the rooms that are in use more efficiently.

There are other small ways that energy can be saved to reduce bills year-round, such as fixing leaky faucets, unplugging electronics when you’re not using them, turning off lights when you leave the room, and using energy-efficient light bulbs.

Contact Us for Additional Personal Risk Management Advice

Karla’s Insurance, Inc. is here to help you navigate all your personal risk management needs. Contact us today to learn more about how you can mitigate your winter utility costs. We can also evaluate whether any of the strategies you’ve employed to reduce your winter utility costs, including changing your programmable thermostat, may qualify you for premium discounts.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.